The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was established in 1945 and aims to achieve international collaboration in the fields of education, science and culture. UNESCO is a key contributor to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2015. Currently responsible for the preservation of 1073 World Heritage sites in 167 countries, UNESCO’s founding vision includes protecting the past in hopes that it will benefit the future. Furthermore, UNESCO leads efforts to ensure quality education globally with its wide network of institutes.

UNESCO plays a significant role in Latin America and the Caribbean by safeguarding the region’s vast cultural and natural heritage, which reflects both ancient civilizations and diverse ecosystems. The organization supports educational reforms and capacity-building initiatives to promote inclusive, equitable, and quality education while reducing educational inequalities across the region. UNESCO also works to advance freedom of expression, protect cultural diversity and strengthen media development in areas facing political or environmental challenges. In addition, it collaborates with regional partners to enhance scientific research and innovation, especially in addressing climate-related threats such as rising sea levels, natural disasters, ocean conservation and loss of biodiversity. Through its work, UNESCO promotes intercultural dialogue, sustainable development, and the preservation of the region’s unique cultural and environmental heritage.